"Been searching for good Mexican in Santa Rosa for years. El Patio Mexican Restaurant is the answer.
About El Patio Mexican Restaurant
El Patio Mexican Restaurant brings authentic Mexican flavors to the heart of Santa Rosa, serving as a beloved neighborhood staple that combines traditional recipes with warm hospitality. This family-owned establishment has built a loyal following over the years by focusing on fresh ingredients, generous portions, and recipes passed down through generations, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Mexican cuisine in Wine Country.
The menu at El Patio showcases classic Mexican dishes prepared with care and attention to detail. Their carnitas are slow-cooked to perfection, falling apart at the touch of a fork, while their chiles rellenos feature perfectly roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and wrapped in a light, fluffy batter. The restaurant also excels at seafood preparations, with their fish tacos featuring fresh local catch and their camarones a la diabla delivering the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Don’t miss their house-made salsas, which range from mild and smoky to fiery hot.
The atmosphere at El Patio strikes a perfect balance between casual and welcoming, with colorful Mexican décor adorning the walls and comfortable seating that encourages lingering over meals. The outdoor patio area, true to the restaurant’s name, provides a pleasant dining experience under string lights, especially during Sonoma County’s beautiful evenings. The staff treats guests like family, offering recommendations and ensuring everyone feels at home in this cozy neighborhood gem.
Visitors to Santa Rosa should make El Patio a priority for its authentic flavors, affordable prices, and genuine local atmosphere that provides a refreshing contrast to the area’s wine-focused dining scene. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up before wine tasting or to enjoy a relaxed meal that won’t break the budget while still delivering on quality and taste.
Must-Try Dishes
Recommended by locals and visitors
Recent Reviews
best tacos ive ever fucking had and price is reasonable. aesthetic so cutest patio i loveee
May 24, 2025
This is a great little Mexican restaurant. As someone who eats plant-based meals often and has family members who are always vegan, it's nice to have the...
Nov 2, 2024
Got the food delivered. The chimichanga is huge! The el pastor burrito is so good as well. The nachos were ok, bit soggy.
Nov 18, 2023